Industry update: more on VR, cashless payments and sustainability initiatives

Read more on the 3MW energy storage system at Johan Cruijf ArenA, a cashless payment system at Birmingham City FC, the #Morethanfootball impact report, etc. in this short industry update by ESSMA.

Construction & Development

Leicester City FC submitted a planning application for its new training facilities. The key components of the training centre include 12 full-size pitches, an indoor pitch, several smaller pitches as well as a main building will facilities for the first team, youth academy, medical facilities, etc. In addition, the club added a plan to generate a ‘net increase’ in biodiversity across the area.

SMART & Sustainability

The Johan Cruijff ArenA inaugurated its 3MW energy storage system. The system provides a more reliable and efficient energy supply and usage for the stadium, its visitors, neighbors and the Dutch energy grid. Combining Eaton power conversion units and the equivalent of 148 Nissan LEAF batteries, the energy storage system not only enables a more sustainable energy system, it also creates a circular economy for electric vehicle batteries.

Ahead of the start of the 2018/2019 season, Bristol Rovers aim to eliminate all single-use plastic. By implementing disposable catering items such as cups, burger trays, straws, etc. the club hopes to meet their plastic-free target.

Federico Addiechi, Head of Sustainability & Diversity at FIFA, on sustainability and how they are engaging fans to change their behaviour:

Operations & Ticketing

From the 2018/2019 season, fans at Birmingham City FC will be able to pay cashless on matchdays. With the cashless payment system, the clubs aims to reduce serving time and improve the overall matchday experience for its fans.

Fan Experience & Hospitality

LOU Rugby launches a VR tour of their Matmut Stadium Gerland. Fans can access all parts of the stadium with exclusive content e.g. video to learn more about the club's history.

Partner news

From 21 March until 8 April European clubs, Leagues and FA’s joined forces to promote the social power of European football with the #Morethanfootball Action Weeks campaign. The campaign was supported by ECA, UEFA Foundation for Children and EFDN. Read the full impact report about the Actions Weeks.

AS Nancy will integrate the BtB ticketing system of ESSMA Corporate Partner, iXpole. The system will automate the BtB processes, in order to optimise customer contacts and increase its service levels. As a first improvement, ASNL’s partners will get access to a self-service VIP portal. This portal will enable partners to manage their own electronic tickets: print, download, transmit and personalise. In addition, iXpole allows you to book or confirm catering options or order additional VIP services.